Los Angeles’ top elected officials say reforms are needed in an unusually generous injury leave policy that pays city employees more when they are out with job-related ailments than when they come to work.

The cost to taxpayers for injury leaves taken by custodians, gardeners, office managers and other non-public safety employees rose 50% in the five years that ended in January, to $18 million, The Times reported Friday.

“It’s obvious that our system is flawed and expensive.
– City Council President Herb Wesson in an email
“It’s obvious that our system is flawed and expensive,” City Council President Herb Wesson wrote in an email Friday afternoon. He said he would work with other city leaders to reform the program, but declined to specify what changes he will seek.